I was concerned- needlessly, it seems- about what I could write about tonight. It was a busy day, few windows of daylight in the schedule. Not a bad one, nothing dramatic...just busy.
Tonight was one of our meetings of the Salt Lake Surgical Society. Those who know my homebody-ness know that I always face these things with some reticence. I truly enjoy my quiet evenings at home with the furry companions and some good music. Tonight was one of those nights that is so very good for my soul, one of those nights that helps remind me why I do what I do professionally. We had a visiting surgical educator talk to us about stories in surgery and how we use those stories; I know that narrative in medicine is a hot topic right now, but this was the first time for me to hear a surgeon discuss our specialty in particular. Because of the emphasis on education it should come as no surprise that I was completely rapt by the talk and the subsequent discussion.
Confession: Selfishly, this evening was exactly what I needed right now. I wasn't in a dark place with surgery and education and the things that I do, but I've also been very candid about feeling unmoored regarding what's next and trying to find my next "great" idea that will change the world- or at least will change the world that is my immediate surroundings. What I learned tonight is that I have some ideas percolating that I really am excited about, that represent great work by my personal definition.
Most importantly, I got a good reminder that surgeons who are truly passionate about surgery and who are truly passionate about surgical education are not the equivalent of academic unicorns. That connection and that realization? Priceless.
Now listening: "The Story" Shawn ColvinLabels: NaBloPoMo